Labics redevelops former bus depot into “City of Sun” in Rome

After winning the Municipality of Rome's invite-only competition in 2007, architects Maria Claudia Clemente and Francesco Isidori of Labics revitalized a former bus depot at the edge of town into a mixed-use complex called the Città del Sole, or “City of Sun”. Working with local public transit authority ATAC, the Municipality of Rome sought design proposals that would redevelop a number of transit depots in the city. Labics completed City of Sun in 2016.

Photo: Marco Cappelletti.

In designing the 17,300 sq.m. project, Labics wanted to create a porous urban center for the local community that would also enhance the neighborhood's identity.

Photo: Marco Cappelletti.

Photo: Marco Cappelletti.

Photo: Marco Cappelletti.

The multi-level complex has commercial spaces and a public library at ground level, offices on the first floor, and then public spaces on the next level.

Three buildings are suspended above the public spaces. One of the buildings provides additional office space, while the other two are residential towers. Partially enclosed with a horizontal glass brise soleil, the first residential tower houses small and medium-sized flats. The second residential tower is clad in aluminum and contains duplex apartments.

Photo: Marco Cappelletti.

Photo: Marco Cappelletti.

Photo: Marco Cappelletti.

“Public realm space is not seen as residual but is fully integrated with the built elements,” Labics writes. “So, for example, the basement space becomes the load-bearing structure for high level walkways as well as a pathway in itself. This creates a complex public space, rich in experience.”